Sam Meech

EVENT: Sailing: Laser

Sam Meech, a two-time Olympian, is widely regarded as one of the world's top Laser sailors, with a standout achievement being his bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The 28-year-old has demonstrated remarkable consistency in the highly competitive Laser class, consistently finishing in the top six from 2017 to 2019.

Hailing from Tauranga, New Zealand, Sam sailed alongside his younger sister Molly at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she competed in the 49erFX. Together, they had spent seven years of their childhood racing around the world.

Sam completed his secondary education at Tauranga Boys' High School. His coach, Mark Howard, played a pivotal role in his development as a sailor.

With over a decade of experience in the Laser class, Sam's career highlights include an Olympic bronze medal in Rio, the 2019 Youth World Laser Champion title, and the Under-21 World Championship.

In 2024, Sam took on a new challenge by joining Emirates Team New Zealand. Initially part of the team as a cyclor, he later transitioned into the coaching staff for the AC40 foiling monohull, which won the America's Cup in Barcelona.